Erickson secures key fire fighting deal in Greece

December 03, 2015
| Portland, Or.

By Erickson

Erickson Incorporated has announced a two-year service contract extension with the NSPA (NATO Support & Procurement Agency) and the Hellenic Fire Department (HFD) in Athens, Greece for aerial firefighting services.

“We are privileged to support NATO and the Hellenic Fire Department for the protection of people, property and natural resources of Greece,” said Vice President of Commercial Aviation Services, Andy Mills. “This extension represents the 18th continuous season that the Hellenic Fire Brigade has employed Erickson for our unique firefighting capability. We appreciate the continued vote of confidence.”

The contract extension, commencing in May of 2016, is the continuation of a contract signed by Erickson in May 2012; previously managed by the NATO Maintenance and Supply Agency (NAMSA). The extension will mark five years of Erickson’s contracted work in co-operation with NATO. An additional option year is also included in the new extension.

The contract requires three S64 Aircranes to perform aerial fire suppression in support of the HFD and includes a scope of work to protect all regions of mainland Greece and its outer islands from the threat of wildfire.

“The Erickson fleet and crew are especially suited for accessing the steep mountainous terrain, remote villages and islands of Greece,” said Mills. “The Erickson S64 has proven to be a reliable and effective tool in combatting wildfires. It is exceptionally capable of handling extremely hot weather and high winds encountered during the summer months in the Mediterranean.”

The S-64 Aircrane helicopter, powered by twin jet engines, is a highly specialized, heavy-lift helicopter capable of carrying up to 20,000 pounds. The helicopter offers a versatile platform which can be equipped for multiple utility purposes. Often adapted with a snorkel and 2,600 gallon tank, the Aircrane is used to fight wildfires all over the world. Increasingly, the helicopter is contracted by oil and gas, telecom and other companies to construct vital infrastructure. Erickson holds the type certificate for the S-64 and currently has 20 in its commercial fleet.